The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination [21st March 2019]

The United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on 21st March. This international day marks the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre when 69 black South African citizens – including 10 children – were shot to death by their own Police for protesting against racial apartheid laws.

The United Nations’ (UN) International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed with a series of events and activities worldwide on March 21 each year. The day aims to remind people of racial discrimination’s negative consequences. It also encourages people to remember their obligation and determination to combat racial discrimination.

In New Zealand Race Relations day is observed around the country. For example, the 2018 celebration witnessed about 40 multicultural events, sporting activities, debates, forums, speech contests and food festivals taking place across New Zealand to support Race Relations Day.

The theme for Race Relations Day this year is our people, our cultures, our languages.